The lead was shared on the first day of the Greenbrier Classic today with Eric Compton and Matt Every both carding seven-under 63’s.

Compton had a nervy start to the day with two bogeys on the first three holes but overcame the initial setback to then hit seven birdies over a nine hole stretch. On the back nine he hit another two birdies and just missed out on an eagle at the 17th where he hit the flag.

“I’m just trying to enjoy the opportunity,” Compton said. “It’s just the first round. I’ve played this sport long enough to know that (Friday) I tee off at 2 o’clock and might be seven back. So I’m just trying to be patient.”

Fellow American Matt Every joins Compton in top spot after hitting four birdies and a eagle to complete a solid bogey free round. His 63 equalled his best ever round on a PGA Tour event which he carded earlier this year at the Phoenix Open.

Following the two leaders are a chasing pack of George McNeil, Patt Perez and Jeff Overton who all carded 64’s to finish six under par.

Jeff Overton is seeking his fifth top ten finish of the calendar and may well have joined the top two on seven under but missed a putt on the 18th for a bogey four.

“Um, you know, it’s probably the best ball-striking round until the 18 hole that I’ve probably ever had. I don’t really know if I missed any shots — the two shots that I — the two times I missed the green I actually made the putts for birdie from just off the fringe.”

Last week’s winner at the RBC Canadian Open Carl Pettersson only managed an opening round of 71.

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